Fibromyalgia | Chronic Pain

Fibromyalgia, affecting 5-10 percent of the population, is characterized
by tight, tender muscles, usually sore points
in the neck, shoulders, chest, back, knees and hips. Insomnia
and depression often are associated with the condition. While it
is benign and non-progressive, fibromyalgia is chronic. No specific
cause is known, although it sometimes appears following trauma.

Chronic pain affects some 80 million Americans and, following cancer
and heart disease, is the third leading cause of physical impairment in the
United States.

Diagnosis of fibromyalgia often involves ruling out other illnesses. Treatment is
primarily exercise and may include some kind of medication. From low back pain
and herniated discs to
carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis, physiatrists seek to not only reduce
and eliminate chronic pain, but also to prevent its recurrence.